Prince Harry is facing a hefty legal bill amounting to £1 million following a significant setback in the high court.
In an unfolding saga that has captured public attention, the Duke of Sussex suffered a major blow in his quest for automatic police protection within the UK.
This development has sent ripples through the royal circles and beyond.
The high court judge, in a comprehensive 52-page ruling, decisively ruled against Harry, 39, in his appeal against the Home Office.
Judge Lane’s assessment was unequivocal, stating that the decision made by the Royal and VIP Executive Committee, Refique, was not only rational but also devoid of procedural unfairness.
Moreover, the judge dismissed the Duke’s attempt to give a different interpretation to the established operation.
Despite this setback, Prince Harry remains undeterred and has expressed his intention to challenge the high court ruling.
However, before proceeding further, he must secure the necessary permission to continue his legal battle.
His legal representative emphasized that the Duke is not seeking special treatment but rather advocating for the equitable and lawful application of Refique’s regulations, ensuring parity with others in similar circumstances.
Recent disclosures stemming from a Freedom of Information request have shed light on the escalating costs incurred by the government in this legal dispute.
By October 2023, the government’s expenses had already surpassed £400,000.
Subsequently, by December, the cumulative expenditure for the government’s legal team stood at £265,437, with additional costs of £137,864 attributed to the solicitor.
Consequently, Prince Harry is now obligated to reimburse the taxpayer a minimum of £500,000 post his unsuccessful challenge, with his personal legal fees projected to reach or exceed £1 million.
The substantial financial implications of this legal tussle are poised to trigger deliberations regarding the appropriateness of a member of the Royal Family engaging in legal action against the government.